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me ?
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2nd!
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As much as I loved big Sutty, I am fully behind WGS.
Anyone who doesn't want to be at the club and give 100% should GTF. Hopefully Agathe will be gone and replaced by the end of the month.
Roll on Sunday..... Keano!
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i am looking forward to seeing du wei play.
Have seen him play for the reserves and he looks half decent.
Paul, whats the latest on the oscars?
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Interesting to here that Sutton wont be playing for Birmingham at the weekend because 'He's not fully fit ' !! MMMMMMMM
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See if there was a prize for posting on a previous thread just as Paul was submitting a new one...........
Anyhoo if Du Wei is making his debut on Sunday I'm almost as excited at that as I am about Roy Keane. If we really do have a ball playing, intelligent and composed centre half (as he has looked in the reserves) then fantastic.
Paul, just a wee observation though. Clyde were not unfortunate to have a goal disallowed last time. The referee clearly blew his whistle, the Celtic defence stopped and the Clyde player ran through and scored.
At the time I thought it was lazy journalism to put it down to the "wee team never get anything against the big boys" when it was quite clear what had happened.
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Looking forward to seeing both Du Wei and Keano play on Sunday.
I'm going to have a wild stab in the dark at kerrycelt's poser and throw Wayne Bridge's name into the ring.
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Cannae wait for Sunday, agree with Supercelt as regards Du Wei.
Pat
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paul
long time reader of your excellent site
Sutton's fitness; any idea how many matches were lost to his Celtic career thru being unfit? He seemed to be a bit GaryGillespiesque in that respect
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Just to stick up for Paul, Clyde were unfortunate to have that goal chopped off. The whistle had gone but the fella was clear and smashed a rasper into the top bin. I remember at the time thinking that they were more than a bit unlucky, but of course I was relieved!
Also remember wee shaun coming on and changing the game that day.
All the best to Keane and Du Wei (and hopefully Virgo, maybe 2nd half at least?)
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Paul67,
Thanks for the update, it looks like Keane for Petrov and Du Wei for BB.
Will Pearson, Thommo or McGeady start?
Although I didn't want to see Petrov crocked, it means we will be seeing Keane in front of Lennon. For me his most effective roll, love to see him go forward. I think he would have done this more at Man U if they hadn't got Paul Scholes.
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heard that miller has signed a new loan deal keeping him with leeds until the end of the season.
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frab
Chris Sutton played 199 games for Celtic in 5.5 seasons.
So assuming we've played 50 games a season and 25 so far this season(possibly a conservative estimate) then he's missed at least 75 games (I think).
In contrast, Stilian petrov has played 268 times (allowing 1 extra season but then a leg break).
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Supercelt - Ach well. Who is this ex player then???
Andy Walker still looks quite lean...
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Presumably Keane is a straight swap for Stan,and Du Wei for Bobo but will he start Thommo again?
And how about Virgo?
And how long is he going to persevere with Wallace at fullback?
Or is Supermo away to the African nations as well?
The Bully Wee should have turfed the urukhai out of the diddycup this season,but the goalie sold the jerseys near the end.
4-1 Hoops,Hartson[2],Nakamura,Maloney[pen!]
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Ex-Player- Bobby Petta ? Mwhahahaha!!
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yes I though as much, whilst no doubting his quality whilst on the pitch my feeling was that he was perennially on the cusp of another minor injury, obviously Birmingham's problem now
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The_ball
My memory of the incident was that at least one Celtic player (Petrov, I think) could have closed him down but stopped when he heard the ref's whistle. However, my old green and white tinted memory may be playing tricks on me.
But you're right. I do remember wee Shaun coming on and completely swinging the game in our favour.
Paul - Was there any indication on whether Majic would be playing or at least on the bench?
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Supercelt, I left the Oscar project with you.
Welcome frab. I should have researched Chris Sutton’s injury record better for this week. Not great at any rate.
Chairbhoy, I doubt Thompson will get a start.
Parkheacomesalford, Peasrson will stay until at least Petrov if fit, or a better replacement has be identified.
Martinobhoy, no mention of Zurawski.
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Agree with you Paul about Gordon's comment about players with hearts.I think that's what he is getting now.many people criticise Mo Camara and Paul Telfer but at least they do have hearts which is more than can be said for CS before he left.Glad he went before his previous reputation became forever tarnished.
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paul. i thought you knew better than that.
Whitedog told me he had it all wrapped up and it was away to you to finalise.
crossedwires csc.
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Having watched the Hearts vs. Celtic Reserves game from October on Celtic TV last night I am confident Du Wei will be a success, unless he shrinks away in front of the crowd. He was winning absolutely everything that came close to him whether it be in the air or on the ground (sounding like Archie there) he distribuiton was spot on and he always knew where he was going to pass it before he got the ball - similar to Naka. Not sure how pacey he is yet. Although reserves are a different level from the top flight he certainly looks like he'd have no problem commanding a place.
I have a few theories why he hasn't been played (apart from the contract theory). Strachan mentioned the communication problem and at the time I thought why is it different for him than for Magic or Naka but watching that game you could see why - there was times where if able he would have told the defense he needed cover or to push up etc. I don't know if the communication has improved but against better quality opposition it could have been punished. Also, just aclimatising to the size of the club would be a shock. Maybe I'm wrong, and China has the biggest population in the world so maybe I am, but how many fans would be at Shenua(sp?) games? I have no idea it could be in the tens of thousands or the just a few hundred. But if it was just a few hundred then imagine how it would be being taken from an ametuer club and played in front of 60,000.
Aiden ran riot in the game scoring the only goal, a brilliant freekick. The only negative is that he was a bit 'greedy' on the ball but then none of the Hearts players could get it off him so why not.
Virgo played fairly well, although he appears cumbersome he is certainly not fat, I cannot see where that rumour has come from. Playing at right back he managed to get forward the full 90 minutes and put in some half decent crosses (some along the ground that may have been mis-kicks or just balls on the deck, which I believe are more dangerous... especially with 2 hobbit sized stikers). His passing is also a lot more positive than Balde's anyway. The lad (and he is only 21-22, and Du Wei only 23?) is still a bit raw IMO but if moulded correctly could be a real talent. Let's not forget that he's been at Brighton for the past few years not Barcelona. Hopefully with the more skilled players around him and the training regime his ball skills will increase. Could do a job just now but if given time to improve could be a very good player for the club.
Lawson, Pearson and Wallace all put in a good shift (Wallace seems to play very well at left-back against teams where he gets to overlap on the wing for large parts of the game) but nothing really spectacular.
Finally, I once again have to mention Simon Ferry. The lad came on with about 20 minutes to go and his first contribution was an excellent sliding tackle to knock the ball to Lawson, he then spinned round and thundered up the wing only for Lawson to misplace the return ball. Next he carried the ball agressively from the half way line to the edge of the box and played an excellent reverse pass to to a player in running down the flank to the corner flag. He seemed to be covering the whole park and his next involvement was sweeping up for the midfield when Hearts were attempting a counter-attack. I don't think he misplaced one pass and looked very strong on the ball, not your McGeady type who trys Maradonna twirls to beat players but confident running and good strength and pace his tackling always committed. A truelly combative midfielder. He looked like he could do a job in our first team and as far as I know (according to football manager) he is still only 17. I can't see him not being around the first team by next season, a real hope for the future.
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Sorry about the long post... instead of doing that I should really be studying!
Ex-player - Alan Stubbs (is he even still playing?)
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malone - did you notice agathes contribution in that game.
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Bhoys and ghirls, please help a right wee tim out, my nephew, and vote for his band in the young scots band of the year competition.
All votes appreciated, thanks.
http://www.youngscot.org/totallysound/?mpp=1&a=d&s=252&sr=1281&ss=3&id=15
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Paul
In your opinion, will any of the "old gaurd", be around come kick off time in August 2006?
p8ddy
Good to see some people never change!! Before you give me a bolding, I agree with your comments regarding Telfer, but do you think that he is more than just a stop gap, albeit one which will last the season? The reason I ask, is that I think/hope that the back four will comprised of a better standard of player by the start of next season. I agree that there are still question marks over the manager and team, but I think he will need at least this season to make the improvements necessary.
Keep posting and telling it like you see it. mate. Your posts are well thought out and argued, even if I don't agree with all that you say!!
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plato, in answer to your question from last night.
I normally only post at night because i have a job during the day.
Offworktoday csc
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Supercelt
No, I didn't think he made one!;P
Distinctly average is all I can say, not really interested if the reserve team wins or not type of attitude. What suprised me about his reserve performances is even though Strachan goes to the majority, if not all of them, he still plays as if it's just a work-out or making up the numbers for the 'wee team'.
It is a shame as I know he can be a good player but some managers will give players a start because they know that player can play well and others want them to work for it (whoever trains/plays best get his game) it's arguable what method is best but I know I'd be looking for my players to put 100% effort in at all times.
Another thing I'd mention is that I'd like to see the reserve team play with 2 quality strikers. No disrespect to Gardyne or McGlinchey but both are small in height and starture, and neither in my opinion are real goal-scorers. Both are fairly pacey and are good on the ball but I think they lack the height and/or strength to be top strikers... one attribute out the two would do.
There were loads of decent balls going in to good areas but nobody getting on the end of them.
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done ardoch.
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supercelt
You beat me to it. I was just going to ask you why you were posting during the day!!
cheekysoandso. csc
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Ardoch,
voted but couldn't listen to the track. Tell your nephew to check out this site: www.oikz.com
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The news of Du Wei possibly making his first start is excellent!
The guy has looked different class in the reserve matches that I've seen and should be a welcome edition with big Bobo's departure.
Had a feeling that Keano would win the spot in MF ahead of Pearson but I'm sure the bhoy will get his chance at some point in the game.
/Bishop B
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Ardoch,
Voted but couldn't listen to the track. Might want to tell your nephew about this site: www.oikz.com
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Cheers Super, he will remember you when he is famous!
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Final post for just now (I need to learn a whole stats course in 3 days! I HATE stats!)
The clyde game is probably the best possible time to give Du Wei his debut. Not only is it a game we should easily win but it will hopefully be watched across the World with it being on Sky and Roy Keane making his debut. The exposure in China will be two-fold because of this, let's pray he has a good game!
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Really looking forward to Sunday, a kind of 'new beginning'. Expect Clyde to be tight at the back so perhaps direct running of Pearson may be preferred to Aiden, might be a few free kick for Shaun and Naka to have a go at.
Ardoch - vote registered - 'expressive rock' - they must sound like my pld pals King Crimson and Van Der Graaf Generator then!
Hail hail
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Cheers Rob i'll pass it on.
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Paul...I hope that Du Wei does indeed get a starting place on Sunday. I think that one of the major stumbling blocks has had to be the communication problem. This is particularly important when playing in defence. Remember that GS replaced Shunsuke at Ibrox after we went down to 10 men for this very reason. Any way good luck to both of our debutants and here's hoping that we can win the Cup for the 3rd time in a row for the first time in our history.
On a separate matter, you will recall that Trotternish very kindly set up a quiz at Hogmanay which I was fortunate enough (or probably sober enough to win). As he wasn't able to buy any of the new share issue (being an overseas Bhoy)he put up a prize of £50 with the proviso that it would be spent in the Celtic shop. Well, I have decided to set a quiz of my own and use Trotternish's £50 to purchase either a signed Celtic top or 2 tickets to a forthcoming match at Celtic Park. The winner can choose. there is also a second prize and that is a copy of John Cairney's excellent book "Heroes are Forever" about the great (in my opinion the greatest Celt of them all) Jimmy McGrory. The 1st and 2nd prizes will be awarded to the posters who answer all the questions correctly. I will post the (15) questions at around 5pm (Glesga time) tonight and the winners will be the first and second correct posters after 9.00 pm tomorrow night. Hopefully everyone will have a bit of fun and enjoy some of the memories evoked by the questions. Good Luck to everyone and thanks to Trotternish for his generous prize.
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sutton is not injured- they just want to give him more time to get to know his team mates
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Excellent idea Gordon.
I have a signed Celtic top hanging on a wall at home, which gives me a smile every time I pass it.
Good luck to all, I’ll check out the question at 5pm tonight.
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Kerrycelt, you out there? Any progress on the mystery player ?
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Can't wait for Keano's debut, & Du Wei for that matter!
Looking forward to the Scottish cup this weekend, should be a good game. Clyde have some cracking young players, I hope to see WGS give a few of the young ones a chance.
Ardoch, done.. :) Not a bad track either bud.
Martinobhoy, again, I agree & well said.
Slightly off topic, I have been away for a wee bit, so excuse me if this has already been discussed. What do the faithful think of Mark Wilson for RB? I've been watching this lad for a while and imho I think he would be an excellent addition to the Celtic first team. No disrespect to Telfer, but I Think hed be easily pushed outta the team by this wee gem.
Any takers?
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Paul, while it's kind of quiet-ish. I've got a signed K of K's top that I'd like framed............
Any recommendations??? Price no object................obviously !!!!
pablophanque
No.1 This day in History
Do They Know It's Christmas? - Band Aid II. 1990
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I would give WGS a B so far. I think too many of us are forgetting that we are being somewhat flattered by the fact that our main rival's league form has been awful.
As things stand we are on course to finish the league with 92 points (12 points dropped after 21 games is the same proportion as 22 points after 38 games). This is similar to what we finished last season with.
In terms of downsizing we are financially (I think we have to) but I do not believe the board are downsizing their ambitions. It is only correct that investments have to pass a value for money test. Would p8ddy, NegativeAnon and others buy their Celtic strips if they cost £500? The same arguement applies to Chris Sutton and £30000 per week. As long as the same money can be spent elsewhere for a better product, or less money can be spent for a product of similar quality, then I am happy. Lubo and Henrik, remember cost £1M between them. I am encouraged that we are looking in Eastern European countries, for example. Players from the Premiership just do not pass the VFM test.
bryce
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For the game on Sunday, I too am looking forward to debuts of Keano and Scooby (hopefully!).
I would settle for a single goal win, but I sincerely hope that we crush them. Not that I have anything against Clyde, but I don't like their manager at all.
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Cheers seany bhoy, and that is exactly what i call my nephew! The track has a touch of PJ Harvey i think.
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Have voted for the band,and look forward to doing so again in a few years to get them into the Country Music Hall of Fame
Kissed a girl in Airdrie
Just to watch her cry..
The wee framing shop at the westbridgend in dumbarton is excellent.
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PlatowasaTim
Cant stand the man either. He was in the Herald today cracking jokes about, as the Herald called it, "conducting the choir".
Since when has bigotry been a laughing matter?
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Ardoch,
no worries. just had chance to listen. like it.
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Ardoch,vote placed for your nephew's band. Have also got all my staff to vote for him too
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Seany Bhoy,
Mark Wilson has not been training with the first team as he has a cold.
IMHO if he's not in the team tomorrow he'll be a Celtic player by Monday.
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Cheers brattback, but i cannot see them in the country hall of fame. The indie hall of shame maybe.
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Hey all. This may have been asked before....but does anyone have a link to the Hartson/Pearson video please?? Ta. Julz
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Cheers Discbhoy, you're the man!
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ardoch, 'tis done..............Excellent BTW
What part does he play?
pablophanque
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Cheers Pablo, he is on drums. The lead singer is only 10!
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Its about time we stopped looking for reasons to put our manager down. Like him or not we are undoubtedly a work in progress and GS should not be judged until the end of the season at the earliest. Even then the European campaign of next season should be our guide.
This_man_craig I think you've too much time on your hands!
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Bryce Curdy @3.35PM
Here are some facts which back up your favourable comparison between this season and last, League wise...
At the same point last season we had played 21, won 17, drawn 2 and lost 2, scored 49, conceded 19. We were also out of the League Cup and Europe.
So far this season, played 21, won 16, drawn 3 and lost 2. For 53, against 20. Out of Europe, but still in League Cup (having done what we failed to do against THEM last season).
I'd say that is pretty good going for a team going through a phase of rapid evolution this season. MON may have raised the bar high (to quote P8ddy, at risk of a good bolding for my troubles), but WGS seems to be getting there if the above stats are anything to go by.
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ardoch, discybhoy is the man
in a one man company.
:))
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Cheers shabhoy.
IMHO this loon has to be one of the best Scottish prospects along with Craig Beattie.
His creative flair is cracking, the way he goes past people and picks out a cross. If memory serves me right, he hasnt yet had a bad game against us.
Hopefully we'll get him. It's been said hes a tic, so it shouldnt be too hard, no matter who's interested... :)
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martinobhoy
Haven't seen offending article, but I am not surprised. That incident has always been treated as a joke, though if it was a Celtic player conducting Celtic fans in the same way, I doubt if the press reaction would be so favourable.
But that is not the only reason that I dislike him. IMO, he was a thug as a player, using his physical attributes(?) in order to bully opposing players. He had no football ability whatsoever. and was lucky to arrive at I**** when he did. For the amount of medals he won under Souness, any outsider would think that he was a decent player. But then, I think that Ian Ferguson has the most domestic medals won by any footballer, certainly in Britain. Talk about being in the right place at the right time!!
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Even more outstanding.................!!!
If only I had friends............I'd ask them to vote also.............lol
pablophanque
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Every vote counts super. Have to go out so thanks to all who have voted, and who will vote for a right wee tims band.
Sorry to hijack the blog Paul!
http://www.youngscot.org/totallysound/?mpp=1&a=d&s=252&sr=1281&ss=3&id=15
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Hello there
Chris Sutton has been one of our best players for quite few years. However, I think it has been obvious that things between WGS, and Chris were not exactly great for some time. The fact that he has been on the sick list for so long, yet sails through a medical at Birmingham would seem to confirm this. There are a few others who one could imagine heading out the door as well. Either way, WGS has to be backed here. He's guided us pretty well this far in the season. Yes, I know the team is still very much a work in progress, but he does have the team heading in the right direction, and if that means upsetting one or two of the familiar faces, then so be it..
So, the creation of the new Celtic continues. I had heard a rumour that the main reason that Du Wei hasn't broken through into the first team was nothing to do with any lack of playing ability, but simply a case of his poor grasp of understanding english. Here's hoping he has a good game tomorrow - assuming hew gets a start.
Then of course there is the awaited debut of Roy Keane. Roy is in a somewhat unenviable position. If he is all fired up, and lets his emotions get the better of him, certian hacks will be only too happy to scribe 'We told you so'. If he tries to be sensible, and keep his debut reasonably low key, the hacks will describe it as a damp squid. He's damned if he does, and he's damned if he doesn't. Personally I hope Roy just tries to play his normal game, and to hell with the hacks.
Noticed John Barnes and Ray Houghton described tomorrows game as a possible banana skin for Cetic. Bearing in mind WGS's comment about being beaten at home by Dunfermline, I can't see us losing this one. A 2, or 3 - 0 win will do nicely. anything better will be a bonus.
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Bengal Lancer..
If thats correct the WGS is doing us proud. It was the end of last season that we started to falter & we werent doing all that bad at this stage.
Considering we lost approx 15 players this season and brought in less than 10(cheaper), I think WGS has shown already that he can produce in the market & in the league.
The manager is still building his team, "its far from over" in his words.
The bread & butter is the end of the season, where we lay & what we have in stock.
The future looks good.
Hail! Hail!
KTF
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Can you imagine the media coverage we would get if Dui We and Keano debut on Sunday and we get beat! Of course we should smash Clyde but there's a few teams we should have smashed recently - Livi - Caley - Dunfermline - and never. I think we'll win but until we start defending properly and get our strikers back from injury I've got to be honest and admit to being a bit nervous about Sunday.
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Hello everybody,
Paul,I'm a bit confused with your phase two comment at the start of your blog.If RK didn't air his opinion on his team mates at Man Utd,he would still be there,Celtic fan since birth or not.We signed RK because of a set of circumstances,not because of any divine foresight.
That said I am glad he chose us as I think he is a terrific footballer.Defensively he will make it harder for teams to attack us and the ball will be played forward a lot quicker when we are attacking.I am assuming he will play in mid-field.
As for Du Wie it should be interesting.I have said before I would like to see a central defender in the side,who can bring the ball out of defence and link up with the mid-field,if he is the man,then great.It would also beg the question why he's not been tried before? It has been asked on here if this was down to contractual agreements,as I am not in the know on these things I cannot comment,but if its true I find it wierd.
Malone19 thinks there may be a language problem,I can't go along with that view.We have had foreign players before who couldn't speak english(nor scottish for that matter)and it has been overcome.
You would think by now he would have learnt to say"fur fecks sake you lot get oot".
To sunday,lets beat the Bully Wee with consumate ease,and look forward to getting Peterhead in the next round.Yours John-b.
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I'm excited about watching Du Wei and Keane making their debuts tomorrow, In a way I'm glad that the African Nations' Cup and injury has allowed the 2 of them to start without any media inspired controversy ("Stan / Lennon / Balde unhappy etc.")
I'll be very interested to see who he plays in left midfield (assuming Maloney starts up front) Mcgeady has shown signs of excellence this season but I'm starting to wonder if he is to Celtic what Ronaldo is to Man Utd - great to watch but does he provide enough to the team?
another option is Thommo but I don't see him as part of the future of the team (in fact if we could get him off the wage bill during this window I'd take it). That leaves Pearson. I think the lad is a great player and want to see him stay. Pearson to start tomorrow!! C'mon WGS - you know it makes sense...
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Len Brennan
One for your list perhaps is Vitaly Kutuzov of Sampdoria. He's the Belarus striker who scored the winner against Scotland at Hampden. After that game there was a report that Celtic had a first option on him (end of season I think?) Have never seen anything else but might fit with E-Tim suggestion of the Celtic store needing to order more "K"'s. .
9 goals in WC Qualifiers 9 in Serie A and 5 in UEFA cup so far.
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BhoyinEngland
Spot on observations about Keane's debut. Of course, if he dominates the midfield, then it will be "it was only Clyde" mince which will be printed!! Ditto regarding Suttons' medical. Could not play for weeks, but skooshes his medical.
Oh well, life goes on!
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Supercelt, still looks as if you are on top form!
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Ardoch........done....hope it was the right link you put up...:-)
Has kerrycelt.....been seen the day or is he still around the table?
Thank god Miller is staying at Leeds.
Roll on Sunday, I think it will be a good game.
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Hi,
On Clyde, I attended last years "you’ll be doing my garden in the summer son" game with my brother in law who is a (maybe thee) Clyde season ticketer. Great seats right behind the dugout and I am sitting there again. However, I was almost thrown out for remonstrating with a moron who shouted the most vile sectarian comments at Martin O’Neill and the final straw was when he shouted something truly disgusting about Martin's wife’s illness. So it’s always interesting in amongst the away end at Clyde. I always believed they were somehow “Celtic friendly” alas not. I am sure my friendly Clyde supporter will turn his attention to Roy this time.
I listened with interest to Brain McGinley on Real Radio the other night. Coming from Balfron I have got to know Brian and his Rangers tracky top he cuts about with in the summer is very appealing. I asked him about the penalty claims as he was at the match but " he was too far away to see it", I told him he wasn't far away the day he allowed Hurlock to put a shoulder high tackle on Steve Fulton on the half way line at Parkhead, waved play on and they ran up the park and scored. Always has bugged me that one.
On another front, I got my share certificate through the door the other day 1850 at 1p per share, £18.50 for my £555, somehow I think I may not have made a wise investment!. Is it only me who is cynical here, or is it a coincidence that the much talked about move to England seems to be being played down now we have bought our shares?
Any finally, Gregory Vignal has a house out here (in Killearn), he hasn't sold it and I'm being told he is coming back to it, new left back anyone?
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Gerry. i see you have not completed your mission yet :(
Are you going on the friday bus run tonight?
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Gregory Vignal is naff.
I highly doubt he'd be coming to Celtic Park.
Ross Wallace & Mo, Mo, Super Mo are WAY WAY better.
Scratch that right now... :p
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Cheers Derbyshirebhoy. However I've been thinking along the lines of Kevin Kibane with that one. ;o)
/Bishop B
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Cheers Len
Funny how the obvious passes right over sometimes
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ardoch...voted for that...
Gregory Vignal.....I almost brought my starbucks back up when I read that...please never let this be mentioned again....
Scooby and Keano could run the show with the eyes blindfolded tomorrow and the press will run the "it's just a wee team" story and to be fair, IMO they'll be right to do that. Only when they come up against the big three....and rankers...will we be able to judge them. Remember we're looking at the bigger picture...EUROPE....with these two, so that's the standard we're aiming at, not wee CLyde....although if we lose I'll be the first to say we underestimated Clyde.....
Overconfidence csc (provisional)
(NO!!! before anybody even thinks it)
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super ......it's done.....just a few....don't know about the bus run......what time is it going.....just incase.
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Pablo, I got my shirt pre-framed, sorry.
No problem Ardoch.
John-b, Phase one of the rebuild happened in the summer. Phase two is this transfer window, though I believe phase three will be the more interesting one (summer 2006).
DellBhoy, your story about Clyde it is ‘astonishing’, to use an old Celtic phrase. Hope we spank them on Sunday.
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Platowasatim, Yes, I expect at least 1 maybe 2 of the old guard to still be here come August.
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Paul67,
Did any of the hacks ask anything with regards potential new players coming arriving? Is Agathe in the squad for tomorrow?
Kerrycelt anymore news regards the mystery signing? You are very quiet today.
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Cheeri bye for now bhoys and ghirls.
Hope well all be smiling on Sunday after noon.
'Mon the hoops!!
/Bishop B
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Hugh Keevins has got it right.
Petrov for the off in June.
He wants too much money, so he has to go, like a good wee lad.
Contract talks have been a bitter battle. He stamped his foot, but PL just laughed.
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Here is the side that I would like to see starting on Sunday.
GK - Boruc
RB - Virgo
LB - Wallace
CD - McManus
CD - Du Wei
CM - Lennon
CM - Keane
RM - Nakamura
LM - Pearson
CF - Hartson
CF - Maloney
While I think that it is good that we give a couple of players a chance / rest first team players. We shouldn't make too many changes a la the ICT game after the Liverpool one 3 years ago.
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hi all! new to the site and its v.impressive. desperate for next season's european assault. on that note id suggest that unless a transfer target can step up to the plate against bayern, et al. there is NO point in signing him. no more syllas,fernandez, etc. this might be an argument for keeping thommo for another year! certainly shouldnt be signing any hibs or dund utd players
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Paul,
Delighted that Du Wei is playing. If he is anything like George Connolly, we have some player. We are crying out for a defender who can pass out of defense. Was George the last one who could do that with ease? As someone else mentioned, with it being on SKY (and therefore on Star in the Far East) the numbers watching us on TV might be some record, especially with Roy Keane also making his debut.
While I always had a soft spot for Clyde and used to enjoy going to Shawfield, I hope we hammer them. Their manager, besides his bigotted conduct(ing), is a thug; never was a football player.
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a wise observation godfather!
Interestingly (for a stats man like me) Hartson has started 157 and been benched on 32 further matches.
Vignal would fail a medical as he is clearly from the Stephane Mahe school of Frenchness.
Petrov in the summer - wonder if we'll lose out on a big fee for him as all eyes will be on Germany for players.
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does anyone else remember an incident when roberts was out at an official rangers team night and he wrote F*** the pope on the hotels tablecloth???? i seem to remember there was a minor stushie by the hotel at the time. always hated him since then. media now turning him into a loveable rogue a la gascoigne
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Paul,
I see the Herald have a new sports reporter, one Donald Findlay. A sad day for a respected journal, or has there been some rehabilitation taking place that I haven't heard of?
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Paul,
Hi thought I had told you about my Clyde experience!
On another note, I see HBOS have a new number 1 and a new number 2, number 2 is Benny Higgins who has defected from RBSG, I'm sure he has taken his Celtic season ticket with him though, from Gavin Masterton to Benny Higgins, oh dear David, oh dear.
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ARDOCH---I have found a listing of 17 songs -unsure which one you have an interest in.
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Stephen Crainey anyone?????
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fat boy 75%er viduka????? please Ghod no...
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Bhoydell
I read that Benny Higgins was captain of a Celtic youth team. Wonder how long before he joins the Celtic board.
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Hello again,
Paul silly me I stand corrected.When you posted."Phase two of Gordon Stachan's building starts on sunday,as former Republic of Ireland captain Roy Keane slots into the mid-field" I thought there was a plan unfolding.
Who else have we signed since the transfer window opened is starting on Sunday,when phase two starts?
yours John-b.
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Roy Keane's registration has been cleared and he will make his Queen's
Celtic debut in Sunday's Scottish FA Cup third-round tie at Clyde.
Meanwhile, the Bhoys have refused to comment on a report that Stephen
Pearson and John Hartson were captured on a video featuring sectarian
chants. According to the Press and Journal newspaper, Pearson is seen
on the tape singing along to an Irish folk tune, with the singalong
punctuated by shouts of "IRA" and "Sinn Fein", while a man resembling
Hartson hugs a fan just before another cry of "IRA" is heard.
Pearson's agent, Willie McKay, said: "Stephen's seen the video and
said he sang Fields of Athenry, but he never shouted 'IRA'." Jonathan
Barnett, Hartson's agent, dismissed the report as "complete rubbish".
this has just fallen in from the fiver....
see i don't write it..........all....
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I'm excited that WGS is exited about Keano being excited.
Keane set for a midfield role
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Not a bad lineup TimOTay, but 2 holding midfielders?? Eww, is all I can think.
Personally, heres my pref for Sunday...
GK - Marshall (due a run-out)
RWB - Virgo (another due a run-out)
RCB - Due Wei (debutant)
LCB - McManus (prob best established CB atm)
LWB - Wallace (pob best player in that pos atm)
RWM - Naka San (how can you leave this guy out!)
RCM - Keano (debutant)
LCM - Pearson (due a start)
LWM - McGeady (clyde won't cope)
RCF - Maloney (so creative)
LCF - Zurawski (if hes fit, good bounce game)
If Zurawski aint fit, then Hartson for his position.
I leave out Hartson & Lenny because I feel we can do without them for this game. Hartson is slow & I think the gameplan will be to outpace Clyde. If you trace back CQN I am a staunch Hartson follower, so it aint because I don't like him or whatever people may assume.
The captains armband would go to Shaun Maloney, only because I went to school with the guy & know hes got a good pair of lungs on him & I aint so sure about the rest... :)
I highly doubt this will be the lineup as there are too many changes in my team. I would love WGS to go out and try it though, heres hoping.
KTF
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FrankieBhoy,
I don't know him personally but believe that to be the case. I was introduced to him at some corporate hospitality (I think at the 4-3 Juventus game) nice guy and a big Celtic fan.
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Paul67:
2nd last word of first sentence of your post - are you expecting pugilistic start to RK's career at Celtic?
Ardoch - vote in; hope all you guys are voting for Jinky, also?
I have re-read the Etims returnee comment - clearly refers to a Back?
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I refer to the previous comments regarding the Clyde support - one supporter does not make a support. I have followed Celtic all over Europe and not every fan of the club would you like to represent the club. We do have a fantastic support, but like all others, we are not perfect. One night in Brussells, two celtic fans took to hurling bread and volleying insults at me and my mates as we were discussing what sections our tickets were and where we would meet after the match. (they other lads did not have tickets) It got to the point we had to leave the restaurant - an isolated case im sure - however so is the Clyde support incident previously mentioned. We have a great support, but lets not be conceited to the point of thinking we are perfect. Lets just hope its a good game on Sunday and we get the result we need and put in a good performance - its been a stop start season so far in way of performances but as we all know we are a team in transition. Lets concentrate on the football - not labelling a support due to one supporter.
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The Pearo & Hartson thing is a bit iffy if you ask me, I heard about it a few days ago.
Anyone want to see it and make their own judgments??
http://upload3.putfile.com/videos/309220227.3gp
There you go. As for them doing the IRA chants, I can't tell tbh. Looks like a mobie phone clip which isnt all that great quality. You can see some of them singing The Fields of Athenry, however, you can't see them chanting.
IMHO Hartson deffo doesnt do the chants, you can see he's just pissing himself with laughter.
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Paul:
Any word on when Eremenko is due in to start his trial period?
Ardoch:
Details again please,and who to vote for.
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btw, its a quicktime file... :)
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Pd67, You are way out o'line.
Remember, it was MON who signed those fellows.
Martin was an excellent man-manager. But he was a lousy bargain hunter.
He could shop at Harrod's, no problem. But at Marks and Spensers he picked the trash.
You want some examples?
Juniho?? Camara??Fernandez, Sylla,Martin even almost signed Yorke?? For goodness sake!
Bellamy, was strictly a Harrod's buy.
Not so Strachan.
This guy is top of the pops, when it comes to shrewd buys.
I do not need to elaborate.
Camara and Telfer were Marks and Spenser stop gaps.
Their days are numbered. Now that Strachan has new funds and most importantly, a far more workable
wage structure. Thanks to PL and the board.
Martin fought the Board tooth and nail. He was religiously loyal to his team members.
Too much so.
Martin was solely responsible for the ridiculous earnings and enhanced contract extensions, that were the residue of his reign.
And inherited by his successor.
Bobo? Martin's sweet idea, again.
PL was left with egg on his face after the story of Bobo's strange one sided contract, was made public.
As I said, you got it so wrong.
Strachan has a far far better eye, for the Marks and Spenser's bargains!
McNamara, when the time came for contract talks, was shaken by the new less generous wages and length of contract,that he was offered.
He will be only the first of a continuing string of disappointed
"super stars" that will be astonished at the parsimony of the New Celtic wage structure.
Sutton?
Was a pure interloper,the last 2 Years!
30,000Pounds a week for a part timer?
Ridiculous!
John Hartson? No a bad player, gets the goals.... a far better investment that Sutton during the last 12 months.
No,I have no regrets at the departure of Sutton. Note his animosity that crept out at the parting of the ways. Good riddance!
I have given you something to chew on.
Hope your digestive system can handle it.
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Welcome pd67, totally agree on transfer targets.
Parkheadcomesalford, The Herald are chasing readership. Sorry business.
Bhoydell, a Celtic season book holder in charge of the Rangers debt. Ha!
John Boyle O’Reilly, a wee Freudian there, thanks for letting me know.
JonG, no info.
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Bobby,
I couldn't agree more. I posted on here last week about the behaviour of Celtic away support and had to wear a tin hat for the rest of the night!
I mentioned Clyde and the couple of morons around me last season for two reasons.
1. One was particularly vile in his sectarianism and personal attacks on Martin.
2. I honestly always believed that Clyde was a fairly good neutral (maybe pro-Celtic club) that wouldn't stand for that, the Stewards ignored it as did their directors who were also aware of it.
Dougy Donnelly was afronted though........ not.
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jbo'r-
the returning back-
it's not harald m.bratt?
that might break the blog!
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Derbyshirebhoy
I would really like to see Kutuzov at Celtic Park, he's got bags of skill,pace can hold the ball and has a brain.
Fingers crossed.
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Paul, Wilson has the flu'.
Well how convenient. No chance of he being cup-tied.
Do you think that maybe, we are staring at a portent of things to come and places to go, in the life of a young footballer?
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Excellent job done by Waterreus in this article in sticking the boot right into TFOD:
http://www.teamtalk.com/teamtalk/News/Story_Page/0,7760,1863_932138,00.html
Wonder how many papers have reported it?
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Paul...further to my posting @ 3.21 here are the quiz questions.
1. Who were Celtic's opponents when we wore numbers on our shorts for the first time?
2. Neil Lennon has only scored 2 goals for Celtic, against which teams?
3. Who were Celtic's opponents when we first wore a sponsor's logo on the jerseys?
4. Jimmy McGrory scored 8 goals in one game against which opposition?
5. John Hartson scored his first Celtic goal against which opposition?
6. Celtic's first opponents in European competition? (NB Not the Anglo-French affair v Sedan).
7. Billy McNeill and Jimmy Johnstone joined Celtic from which junior clubs?
8. Jock Stein's first signing for Celtic and first game in charge?
9. Who were the opponnets when Celtic "opened" their floodlighting system ?
10. It took Celtic 2 replays to dispose of these opponents in the Scottish Cup in the 1980's. Who were they and where was the second replay played?
11. Henrik's first competitive Celtic goal was against which opposition?
12. Who scored Celtic's first goal in their first game?
13. Who was the goalkeeper who only played one first team game for the club, in the 60's, and unfortunately lost 6 goals?
14. Who was the last Celtic player to score a hat-trick against Rangers?
15. Billy McNeill was only sent off once in his career, who were the opponents?
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE WINNER OF THE FIRST PRIZE WILL BE THE INDIVIDUAL WHO POSTS THE FIRST ALL CORRECT ENTRY AFTER 9.00PM TOMORROW EVENING. THE PRIZE IS EITHER A SIGNED CELTIC TOP OR 2 TICKETS TO A FORTHCOMING HOME GAME. IT'S THE WINNER'S CHOICE. THE SECOND ALL CORRECT ENTRY POSTED AFTER 9.00PM WILL RECEIVE A COPY OF JOHN CAIRNEY'S BOOK "HEROES ARE FOREVER" ABOUT JIMMY McGRORY.
Thanks to Trotternish for the donation and good luck to everyone.
Gordon
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cassidy-are you sitting on the plane next to kojo,that man of a thousand aliases and japes,as he goes down south america way?
i thought it was bolivia where you and the sundance kid bought the farm?
and where have all the capitals gone?
la paz?
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Dontbratt:
I'd be very pleased; the bold Harald was most intelligent runner since Buzzbomb, IMHO, and only player who passed to him properly was one Henrik Larsson.
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I'd like to see
Boruc
Virgo Du Wei McManus Camara
Nakamura Keane Lennon Pearson
Hartson Maloney
Am I the only one who thinks McManus' dip in form and Wallace's promotion to LB may not be entirely coincidental? Previously McManus was doing really well getting on with his own job, whilst being alert enough to cover for the two inevitable Beckenbobo moments per game, plus keep his eye on Camara every now and then.
Now he's having to spend large portions of games watching Wallace like a hawk. No disrespect to Wallace, I think he has something to offer but he's never a left back. If Strachan wants to persist with the notion of converting him to LB, I think he needs to spend a longer term in the reserves because quite frankly, he doesn't know what he's doing at present. I don't think his lack of height is the problem, it's his lack of having any defensive bone in his body at this time.
I sincerely hope Thommo is not still with us in August. I don't subscribe to the view that he offers strength in midfield. If he did, games wouldn't continually pass him by.
I presume that if two of the old guard were to remain, they'd be Lennon and Hartson.
Vignal's distribution was on a par with Balde's. I've never seen another full-back who was so utterly inept at passing the ball to a team-mate. Not even Michael Gray.
I'd like to see Ze Roberto and Belletti coming in at LB and RB in January. But then I don't always live in the real world. I'd be happy if we acquired Wilson for a reasonable fee.
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Excellent quiz Gordon, excellent prize also.
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I agree Vignal was duff, always thought he had a funny running gate. It will be interesting if he is indeed coming back. he was anice guy though, helped teach French to the kids at the local primary school believe it or not! I spend a while teaching my wee girl to say
"Celtic pour le triple"
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In Ardoch's absence:
Who knows which of the bands his nephew is with?
Have looked at the web site but don't know who i'm looking for.
Thanks
JonG
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Paul...Thanks, hopefully there are questions in there for everybody and not just the "auld yins". Anyway we should all "Know the History". Again, good luck to everyone.
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Malone19,
Excellent summation of the Hearts Reserves match (I was busy that day... and don't have a monopoly on it! ;-0). Good to see someone backing Adam Virgo. I'd love to see him at right back on SUNDAY (that's for the benefit of all those talking about "tomorrow's" game).
Bhoydell,
Big Benny Higgins played for Celtic Boys Club in the late 1970s. He was in with a chance until his pal at Holyrood Secondary, Gerry McCoy, broke his ankle in a friendly between Scotland Schoolboys and Queen's Park Strollers. Benny turned his back on the game, stuck in at his studies, got a first class Honours degree in Maths from Glasgow Uni, and is now a millionaire.
Where did it all go wrong, big man? (:-0)
Unfortunately, Benny's in charge of the "retail" side of the biz at HBOS, so won't have anything to do with the Rangers account.
Merr's the pity.
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JonG
Thats a direct link to the band & vote page.. :)
http://www.youngscot.org/totallysound/?mpp=1&a=d&s=252&sr=1281&ss=3&id=15
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hi cassidy..........burp
id say that no top managers can be succesful bargain hunting. cos for every diamond you'll get 10 duds.
wgs might win treble but so did mcleish so jury out until europe campaign.
the tynecastle game is the first crunch game he has won at celtic! (artmedia, gers at ibrox, hearts home game).
everyone talks about lowering average age but to do anything in europe next year we will need keane like signings.
we should use our european scouts to find us some good 28-33 year olds (lubo, di canio anyone)
forget any british bargains....there arent any!!!
money spent at hibs or dund utd will be money wasted!
re. big sutty unfortunately it always comes down to money but he did his bit on black sunday unlike most of the others and should go with our very best wishes.
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"Sectarian" video is headline news on Scotland Today
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Celtic blog,
Thanks for that, what a great journey for him.
It is interesting how Gavin Masterton and BOS and the establishment has changed!, remember how they treated us and wee fergus dumped them for the Co-op!
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strachan questions and answer thing should be on this now at the website
But the link that was there before is now gone
Does anyone have the link or know whats going on!!!!!
Badger
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jonG.......if you look at Ardoch's post at 3.58 copy and paste the link and maximize the page the vote is on the right.
I think the link takes you right to the page the bands on
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Becoming a millionairre is in no way worth going through an honours degree in Maths at Glasgow Uni! Talk about selling your soul!
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ps........i hope so that's the one i voted for.....:-)
I see that video made the main headlines on STV news (first article)
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Gordon; brilliant quiz mate,the winner will have to be 118yrs old with a Phd in Celitc to win,yours John-b.
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dontbrattbackinanger, I am flattered. You have made my day.
No. I am not related to the people that you mention.
Wish I was.
No, I just tell it like I see it.
I am never influenced by any other contributer.
I left school at 14.
Never made a fortune. I have a fine lady. I am much satisfied with my lot.Getting on.
I am now in my early 80's.
But I still think for myself,laddie.
I even remember watching, Jimmy Mallon, Pat McAuley, Bobby Hogg,Jimmy Delaney, Tommy Bogan.etc etc.
I used to chat with Jimmy, in Valente's after mass on the Sunday.
Many a story I could tell of what really went on in the dressing room at Parkhead,after a usual Rangers defeat.
Most of the contributers,here, are always running from pillar to post.
They are so much influenced by others.
When it is so obvious.
Martin left a mess.
The Augean Stables, come to mind.
But the new celtic Hercules, though small in stature, will do the job.
Strachan will go down in the annals of celtic as a great manager.
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jon-b.
it should be easy picking for the CQN aul haunds then.
:)
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cassidy, May we all revere you and hail you as the new Messiah.
pablophanque
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Ewan Petrie on Scotland Today on Roy Keane:
The Northern Ireland international is in line for his Celtic debut on Sunday.
Geez, it's not difficult.......
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Given their usual standard, I'd give them credit for getting the right island!
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cassidy
New writing style from the "Careinthecommunity" CSC?
Big improvement if it is and hopefully we can consign the "Kojo" style to the bin where it belongs.
Interesting points put forward, agree with a lot but some issues remain.
CS = Did a shift last year under WGS, not his fault if he was played out of position and I do appreciate the goal he scored on "Black Sunday". Consequently I do not grudge him the money he earned last year so don't agree with your "pure interloper, the last two years" comment. I was prepared to forgive and forget the Ibrox sending off until he started playing silly b*gg*rs in the past few months.
He did not handle the changeover very well and his recent demeanour suggested his heart was elsewhere. Consequently sorry to see him go as I thought he had a big part to play this season but as always things change.
He is the easy part, we need more action to remove AT, SV, and DA from the payroll as they are currently offering nothing to the progress of the club. Any news on these players and possible replacements?
However my main point involves strategy and not individual players, what is tyhe medium to long term plan for the club if the wage levels are being significantly reduced?
Where do you and the board see the club in 5 years? Growing club with EU status and a £100mill T/O? CL QF'lists or better every other season? The potential of the club has been shown sporadically over the past 5 years the question is whether a football wage budget of £25mill will allow us to replicate this more consistently. I think not.
Consequently I think that a fight with SP is the wrong option unless a replacement can be found and introduced into the team this transfer window. SP(Ajax) was a missed opportunity in this respect and a inability to fund a weekly basic itro £28-30K for new players means that we will be approaching next year with one hand tied behind our back.
When it comes down to it tick box salary negotiations maybe the way forward but flexibility will be required to keep and inspire the best.
What do you want?
Cash in the bank or trophies on the sideboard? We can't have both.
That's if you are being truly realistic.
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Supercelt;I will be delighted and not in the least surprised then if you win it:-)yours John-b.
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JonG 5.16---I posted at 4.55 looking for clarifcation re song--i had a list of 17 songs --however i logged the full address on google and one song came up Candy sticks and Cyanide by Icebreaker which is what i voted for--not 100% sure as i am a novice on these new fangled contraptions
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Supercelt;I will be delighted and not in the least surprised then if you win it:-)yours John-b.
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pablophanque, I wish you young guys and gals, would come up with easier to type nommes de plumes.
Cassidy is my real name.
Full name, Plain, Joe Cassidy.
Simple.
Thanks for the compliment.
I like the title,which you so drolly conferred.
Yes. Many a truth is said in jest.
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Cassidy
I'm just a simple youngster compared a man of your age and wisdom.
Tell me, in your 80-odd years of watching Celtic, have you seen a less convincing LB than Ross Wallace?
Apart from Michael Gray, obviously.
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madmitch, again you are knocking at the wrong door,but if you feel that way, que sera.
The answer to your finishing question,is an easy one.
Trophies in the Board room!
One hand, washes the other.
And yes, one can have both.
Ajax, springs to mind,even to a certain extent,did Porto, until they lost their excellent manager.
Now there is a Manager par excellence!
Strachan I believe is cast in the same mold.
We'll see, we'll see.
We shall regurgitate this discussion next June.
Nice talking, to a fellow with his head screwed on tightly.
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Where is kerrycelt tonight?? Looking for an exclusive to wet the appetite tonight
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Now THIS does look interesting !!!!???
pablophanque
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5.18 Joe Cassidy Great post i couldn't agree with you more.
I was starting to think that our chief scout under Martin O'Neill was Wullie McKay.
With a European scout in place i believe 10,OOO/WK quality players can be signed to replace the full backs and leave change from Chris Suttons wage.
Cassidy i look forward to reading more of your stuff orra best auld yin.
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Senor Pablo Diablo, You must be joking? Sure, in the late 40's and early fifties, celtic were not blessed with skillful backs, Jimmy Mallon admitted to me that he sometimes felt embarrassed taking the money(Five Pounds, including win bonus.If you did not play, no pay!), Cowboy was no great shakes either. In those days, once you made the team, that was it.
McGrory was no Stein. He was a lovely man, a nice nice man.
You are being a wee bit harsh on Wallace. New position, before he even cemented his former position in the line-up. That is a tough proposition. Give him some slack.
I believe, that you are right in thinking that he is no wing back. That is evident. Strachan is slowly coming to grips with his own settling in period. So he is experimenting and feeling his own way. Walllace does have a place in the celtic panoply, but as you have hinted, I repeat, he is no wingback.
Strachan will take care of that position, in the very near future, or I have misjudged the wee Manager.
And I pride myself, in my judgment of Character. After all, I have been around quite a few in my time. I cannot explain it, but I know. a strong Character when I see one. The present incumbent has true grit to spare!
He will settle the left wing-back position,very shortly.
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Cassidy; good to hear an elder statesman of the Celtic family and one who debates with great prowess.Just goes to show supporting the tims must be good for the brain.
Keep telling it as you see it,yours John-b.
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pd67
Sorry mate. I must disagree with your statement regarding wasting money at Dundee Utd and Hibs. Mark Wilson is, IMO, an excellent prospect. He remains calm when put under pressure and I would be happy if we sign him.
Simarily with Kevin Thompson. At the recent game at Celtic Park, he was excellent. He also ran the show against TFOD's at Easter Road, so much so, that Captain Fantastic was sent off for fouling him one too many times. The e-tims rumour mill has been saying for weeks that he is coming in the summer. I hope that they are right. He is superb!!
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OK...
I'm going to lighten my tone a little and say that I'm looking forward to the debuts of Du Wei and Roy Keane.
Lets hope the hoops get a big win.
/p
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Evening All,
do any of you know any Celtic pubs / supporters clubs in Leamington Spa or Warwick?
Pepe
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Cassidy
Thanks for the reply
I agree with a lot of that. I actually think pretty highly of Wallace, I think he could be a cracking winger. I just don't think he's a defender of any description. I think Strachan is actually being a bit unfair on the guy by playing him in this position.
It just puzzles me that while Wallace is being made to look uncomfortable and probably having his confidence shot, we have a left back who sits on the bench.
I share your belief that Strachan sees this position (and RB) as immediate priorites. I just don't think it's doing Wallace (or Camara) much good by playing Wallace at LB right now.
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Which player will be the first to pass the ball to Roy Keane? Which player will be the first to get a shiricking from him? That is now open for debate since Bobo is away!
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Good man p8ddy!!!
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I'm going to lighten my tone a little and say that I'm looking forward to the debuts of Du Wei and Roy Keane.
Lets hope the hoops get a big win.
c'mon the p8ddy!
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P8ddy!! How could you do this to me!! I posted earlier on today that it was great that some things never change, coz you were still a greetin' faced so and so,even after a spell away. Then your post at 7.37PM appears.
I GIVE UP!! NOTHING IS SACRED!!
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PlatowasaTim 7.27PM
Excellent post, couldn't agree with you more if I tried.
As for MON leaving us in a mess, I think that statement is wide of the mark. Or hand has only grew stronger in Europe over the MON era, teams FEAR coming to Paradise.
Sure, we were left with a thin squad in need of much work, work which was in MON's pipeline. It wasn't his fault he left us so abruptly now, was it?
IMHO he must be excused for the squad situation, he said at the start of his final season there was work ahead.
Several of the "duds" he bought, were welcome duds. I didn't see anyone complaining about them when they were bought. Granted I wasnt a member here, but im sure there werent too many complaints. Thinking back, I personally was delighted at pretty much all of the MON signings. They were reasonble buys. Some of them didn't work out, but we never suffered for it. He was extremely cautious(maybe too cautious).
MON is a Celtic Legend. A great man. The term, St Martin is a fitting one in my mind... :)
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On Celtic TV tonight and also on the editted version of the press conference GS said that he had been talking to Bryan Robson last night - any idea why this was - even more intriguing when a planned Q&A session for Channel 67 was cancelled last night because GS and PL were involved in transfer negotiations. Could there be a link here or am I letting my natural curiosity run wild and getting 5 from 2+2/
Also a disgrace that STV screened this obviously tampered with video footage, could there be something in the SMG which drove this, even the BBC choose not to transmit this.
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Terry O'Neill, now that's a name!
Thanks for the kind words.I know I have been hoggin' the blogways, but as I have been a long time watcher(And thanks,Paul, you have created a stoater!)so I have a lot to get off my sunken chest.
Keano, was the lynchpin that Strachan needed to connect his waggons. Keano will make a huge difference.
Lennon is strictly a "rummeler upper", as we used to say.
No harm in that, but Lennon's distribution and attempts at being a "firestarter" leaves much to be desired.
No, the laddie is no Charlie Tully.
Petrov, blows hot and cold. He is like little Audrey. Do you know that children's story? No matter.
And Petrov has a lot on his mind at present..not good.As I say,Petrov could and should be a player of significance, but he lacks that prominent piece in his skill factor.... Consistency.
Centre half,Bobo, is an accident just waiting to happen, and a grievous one at that!
For goodness sake, get him out of the side.
Du Wei, is a comer. He is the answer to a manager's prayer.
A Centre Half, who never wastes a clearance.
I watched the last game against Hearts.
Where does it say, that headers cannot be directed to a friendly player???
I lost count of the number of times, Bobo and yes, McManus, sent their headers, straight to the feet of an opponent.
So what good was it winning the header in the first place? Nuts!
Jimmy Hogan told me, remember, losing the ball,by a slack pass, is flirting with danger. If one does not give away the ball too cheaply,one is on the road to victory.
Naka? what can I say, pure genius.
He is a match winner. Cannot praise him enough! Lovely first touch!
Big John, reminds me of Jackie Gallagher, when he was having a good day! Which was seldom.
Yes, Big John is an old fashioned centre forward. What's the matter with that, you say?
Nothing, except times have changed and celtic need to get with the programme. An old fashioned centre forward is too easily taken care of by an old fashioned centre half. A la Willie Woodburn. Pressley is an old fashioned centre half and did rather well against the big Welshman. But in doing so, left the back door open, for McManus to take advantage of Naka's brilliant crosses.
So Big John's tactics did pay off .
But Pressley closed down the Big Yins goal threat completely.
Not good, we need a free flowing centre forward a la ..... Larsson... God bless the Name!!!
Magic, I declare, will fill that part of the bill.
Needs games, of course, but I see a lot of Larsson in his manner.
Ach, I think I will give you guys a break.
Seeya, after the game against the Bully Wee!(Boy, did they used to have a wee nippy, smashing centre forward.. Davie Mathie... Aye he was little, but you had to admire him... Five Feet Two, but what a player!
And, yes, you do not have to be Tall to be goal threat!)
Looking so much forward to watching Keano...
There's a player. You'll see!
Good Bye and God Bless!
Seeya After the gemme.
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Can I throw a question/observation into the mix the nicht?
What is that most Celtic supporters want? To win the league easily against mediocre opposition? Or would it be preferrable(?) to have other teams like Aberdeen, Dundee Utd, Killie and Rangers, step up to the mark like the Hibs and the Hertz have done this season, and win a much more competitive league by a much smaller margin?
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I notice that Edward has not been around much recently? Does he have anything to do with the "video nasty" that has been doing the rounds these last few days?
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Nobody else here the nicht? I can't be the only one fed up with reading my on posts again and again!!
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Plato, if I may be so bold.................. After B.S. I don't think one single supporter wants anything greater than a 20 point clear lead going into the last game.......................The scars and hurt have not even had enough Savlon rubbed on them, never mind the scars begining to heal.
pablophanque
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Good point, Pablo
But imaging the euphoria if we had won the league that day under similar circumstances; i.e two goals in the final three minutes of the last game. Like 1979 or 1986, for example
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Cassidy...
Jimmy Hogan! Now you're talking! The coach who inspired the Austrian Wunderteam and the great Hungarian side that included Puskas and Hidegkuti. It was no surprise that his arrival at Celtic Park in the 1950s saw the side enjoy league and cup success.
Tell me, Joe, do you think his coaching had much influence on a workmanlike central defender called John Stein? Were they at Parkhead at the same time?
As for Du Wei, I feel McManus will benefit from not playing alongside a permanent accident-waiting-to-happen. By the way, I used that phrase first (about five minutes earlier!) in my article "Time for a Wei change" on my ain wee blog.
It's for all dedicated fans like yersel, JC:
celticfcblog
Cheers,
JohnBhoy
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Paul,
Your new addition, Cassidy, talks like my Dad. Great to hear from him. Long may he contribute.
By the bye, there is at least 1 wee factual error in John Cairney's book, according to my Dad. The address he gives for Mrs. Wales, Jimmy McGrory's sister, should be 728 Springfield Road. My Dad's family were her next door neighbours. John Cairney grew up about 2 streets away; so, maybe he should have known better.
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celticblog, just took a gander at your wee blog. First class, good common sense shines throughout.
I believe I will become an aficionado of your wisdom.
On thinking back, Jimmy Hogan was celtic's first footballing coach. Ever! I was friendly with the Holyrood Sen.Sec. head P.T. teacher. John Murphy, he used to make all the announcements, before the game at Parkhead, on match days.
Good, good pal o' mine. To continue, He got me the chance to meet Jimmy. I had many a wee chat. A real staunch catholic was Jimmy, he always suggested,three hail mary's, would no dae any harm, afore the match, on game day..Much to the consternation and puzzlement of Willie Miller!
But Willie took it in good part.
I am digressing. Jimmy was the coach for two years.
I know he was there in 1950.
My guess is that Stein, may have been a player at that time....1950-2, but I honestly do not remember.
That was 55 years ago! wow! where did my curly hair go! On the comb, day by day,and then there was none!
I know Bobbie Collins was there. He and I with Bobby Evans and Geordie Hazlitt, (Celtic and Belfast Celtic) and Jimmy Mallon, were a' queeries frae the 'Shaws.
Using queeries in the old fashioned and proper sense, of course!
Och! Too many memories, come flowing back!
And before I go,regarding our mutual phrasiing.
Great Minds think alike!
That's proof positive.
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j cassidy , hello again! you've been lucky enuf to watch the hoops a long time......best ever celt?
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WGS speaking to Bryan Robson last night.
Kerrycelt clue, a walk across the roof tops.
VertWolf 11pm
The lights are always changing
The black and white horizon.
Black and white W.B.A.
Earnshaw anyone?
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Cassidy , one of the queer folk - not Butch?
Did you tell us what your first game was?
What was the amortisation like in they days?
Tully or Nakamura?
And sort out your gingers, Neil Lennon or Bobby Evans?
Keep on posting.
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I know its late and Ive had a few but what about Pearson at left back? Good engine for getting up and down, one less MF to accomodate. Save$$$.....
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Cassidy
Any chance you might be my dad? I feel as if I am time travelling reading your posts. Any minute now you will be telling me how you and I somehow got home to Milton after the 1970 Leeds game at Hampden... :-)
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it s gonnae be interesting now with keano on board. i know for a fact lennon and thommo didnt want him to come. not convinced wgs was desperate for him either.
but me.........im delighted!!
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pd67, somehow I think I am over-staying my welcome, however here is your answer:
Forgive me if I answer in this fashion.
The best tactical and skilful player: Charles Patrick Tully.
Was so far ahead of the rest of the forwards in sheer Footballing ability, it was a shame. So celtic were the losers because of the lack of complete cohesion, that was necessary to have exploited Charlie's talents to the full.
George Best was a poor imitation of his fellow Belfaster.
The best defensive and also attacking defender:
Bobby Evans.
I watched him when he first came up, from The Ants( I am sure it was, but would not take bets)
He matured from a young effervescent bubbling wing half, to a towering unbeatable in the air, hard accurate tackling Centre Half. Proving once again, that Height is not always the deciding factor in a defender.He was 5 foot 9 on a good day. And 5 foot 8,when it was raining.
But rain or shine, Bobby Evans, pound for pound, was the greatest centre half that I ever saw. Closest to him was Neil Franklin, but that is another story.
Best Three Defensive and Attacking fullbacks:
Tam Gemmell and Malky Mackay and Danny McGrain. I think that Mackay was the initial progenitor of the wing back,before it became fashionable.
Goalkeeper:
Two,
Willie Miller, (Again, he was 5 foot 9 on a good day and 5 foot7 on...well you know the rest)
Now this may be a surprise.
Artur Boruc. yes , the Pole is on the road to greatness.
It is not his ball stopping ability, that of course is important,but like Willie Miller, it is his confidence inspiring demeanour that makes him a winner.
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Just to clear something up, when Kerrycelt mentioned 'WATR' (Walk across the Rooftops) last night, it was a reply to the poster with that name. It wasn't a cryptic clue.
On the 'Zapruder' footage of Hartson and Pearson. Loved WGS reply to the journo who offered to send him the clip - 'No Thanks, I don't need Junk Mail'
Sort of puts it in it's place, well handled again WGS and Celtic.
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Bengal Lancer, no a bad monica.
Your father must be a very sensible man. Listen to him,carefully. When experience talks, youth should listen.
I accept the compliment.
And...No. I am sure I am not your dad.
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can we expect Pearo and Hartson to be writing in Herald shortly??
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slimlinebbj
interesting line of thought the WBA away kit fits the clue well
VertWolf
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Shammy
cheers ! - that certainly puts egg on a certain emerald canine's face but maybe we were no further away than we usually are :-))
VertWolf
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Pd67, just noticed.
The defender was Duncan Mackay, not as stated. Sorry about that, the memory play tricks,now and again.
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Vertwolf, it's that time of the year, transfer window, we're all like dogs on heat!
Of course, you know this more than most!
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Monteblanco
Why would the ginger two be writing in the Herald? Neither has been proven to sing a sectarian song in public.
J Cassidy
Don't feel you're outstaying your welcome. It's enjoyable reading someone with so much first hand knowledge of Celtic. My grandfather spoke of Charlie Tully with an affection which seemed to me to be unmatched, even by the affection he had Jinky.
Interesting comment about Boruc. The very best keepers (e.g. Schmeichel, Kahn, Canizares) seem to have a habit of bawling at others for their own mistakes, such is their unshakeable belief in their own ability.
I find it funny and somehow reassuring when Boruc goes mental at his defence regardless of whether or not they deserve it. Boruc is the first 'Tic keeper I can remember who doesn't make you even slightly edgy when the ball goes near him.
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cassidy...
haha....
malky from queens park who scored the header against teddy bears from corner ..was that macaris first game..no think it was cup game at parkhead we won 2-0
doing well in england with norwich i think.
my dad says bobby murdoch was best player ne ever seen, and he seen, and played, with a few!
never seen him play, but for me the best CELT was james mcgrory
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Thanks again to all who have been voting for my nephews band. Apologies to anyone who has been confused over who to vote for.
The bands name, and it's crap i know, is 'This Last Promise' I guess my idea of 'Celtic Quick News Dot Com' wasn't popular.
http://www.youngscot.org/totallysound/?mpp=1&a=d&s=252&sr=1281&ss=3&id=15
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I hope Ardoch harvested a good number of votes for his nephew`s band.I`m off to see The Great Rock and Roll Swindle--Now that`s what I call music
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Senor Pablo Diablo,
Relish your grandfather's opinion, he is correct.
There is no one to compare, in cheekiness and gallusness, than the nonpareil, Charles Patrick Tully.
We always, used to say,whenever an opponent bore down on the celtic goal, one on one .
"Aha! He still has to beat Willie!"
And you something? We were 9 times out of 10...right.
Boruc instills the same confidence.
A natural, if ever I saw one!
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Hi Paul,
Platowasatim :- I've been having some PC problems recently hence the lack of posting. On the video clip I can see players from both Rangers and Celtic ending up in clips due to the fan with the video phone, I can see more clips appearing with players at supporter functions as the cameras become more common. Both players deny singing any sectarian songs and I tend to believe them, but from now on players are going to have to be very wary.
Cassidy :- Never having seen Willy Miller I'll take your word on his ability from what you say he sounds more than decent. On Mr Boruc though, while I agree with you he is a good keeper and have said before he may welll be the most important of the new signings I think it's still a bit early to call him a great, in my opinion it takes at least three years with a keeper before you can tell if they will be good or something extra special.
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Cassidy,
God bless us and save us!
It's good to know the internet is up and running in the Pampas! Say hello to all our friends down your way.
What are Racing Club up to these days. Thai Boxing perhaps!!
Tell them big TG is still out to get them,
Ben
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Straight question for you Paul - are Celtic going to bring in more than they sell this close season?
From your anti celtic chum....
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Ardoch - done!
Mr Cassidy - welcome a breath of fresh air and a welcome addition and teacher!
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Neg Anon,
May I give you my view.
Celtic will sell / let go more than they bring in this close season. The writing has been on the wall for a while. We have been living outwith our means.
I hope and expect Celtic to do more business in the summer as Paul has suggested.
BTW. I have read your posts for a long time and do not consider you to be Anti-Celtic.
Cassidy. Enoyed your insights tonight. Keep them coming.
Lubo.
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Lubo - so its a case of jam tomorrow then? Havent we heard that before somewhere?
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Tin hat at the ready: - Re the phone video and players and dare I say it directors joining in a sing song (sectarian or otherwise).
Surely if anyone is at a private function what goes on in there is private and the individuals who have had their privacy invaded should be able to take action against those who make it public. i.e SMG (sure murray's great) + Ewan (its ok for me to sit with hearts fans singing and shouting all sorts of sectarian crap as long as I am not caught on camera joining in) Cameron.
What will happen now is players will stop attending functions, or inviting the supporters to their testimonial dinners/golf weekends.
I am not wanting to open up the old sectarian debate only that they had their privacy invaded, in that where they asked their permission to either be captured on video or for that to be used in the public domain.
and having just seen it I cannot believe this has even made the news, how on Gods earth can they say Pearson and Hartson shouted those chants during the song..
oh thats right the worlds media is upon usover 60 journo's at broadwood for their news conference from all over the globe and I don't think it was because Sunny cumbernauld has the plook on the plinth award more for Roy's debut on Sunday nothing like dragging a story up to try and drag our club's good name down
Oh I know we are just paranoid!
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Negative Anon.......I like reading your post to.......but what paper do you write for???......:-)
It looks like we will be going with the young guns.
Has anyone seen or heard from kerrycelt the day???? or was he just talking a load of @@@@
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Cassidy
Welcome. Very much enjoying your reminiscences.
Charlie Tully
Only saw him towards the end of his career. Memorable moment being when as a young "Son of the Rock" I saw Celtic open the new floodlights at Boghead.
Charlie Tully went like a knife through butter through the Dumbarton defence went round the goalkeeper stopped the ball on the line proceeded to beat the two full backs on the line then back-heeled the ball into the net.
Duncan Mackay - a disgrace that he wasn't capped many more times.
Keep them coming.
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Neg Anon,
I think we might have had more Jam this window had we not had a 7 point lead.
Personally, I think we will get more players in the summer. WGS deserves it. However, I don't think they will be the type of high profile player that MON signed. Times have changed. We do not have the money and our domestic competition is weaker.
I feel a bit for the current board and WGS. They will inevitably be criticised. New signings will be compared with those of MON.
However, MON already had Henke, Lubo and was able to sell Viduka. His big signings were made when we had a SKY contract.
Now we get peanuts from Setanta. It's not such a favourable situation for WGS.
Lubo.
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PlatowasaTim...
I revel in my abilty to annoy and confound. My name should have been Macavity (the mystery cat). ;-)
Your post made me laugh out loud. Quality.
In the end, I'm just some guy that loves Celtic. :-)
/p
